Explore Small Towns in Central Florida

Mount Dora

Whether you are a lifelong resident of Florida or planning your first visit, this lovely small town should be on the top of your list of things to see. It has a rich history, unique charm, and lots of natural beauty. Great for a day trip!

Mount Dora offers a glimpse of Old Florida, and it's only an hour from the Central Florida Coast. Bed and breakfasts, antique shops, unique restaurants, and gorgeous historic homes are some of its biggest attractions. You can spend time just strolling through Mount Dora, or you can come to experience one of the many festivals and events throughout the year.

Mount Dora Seafood Festival – August 26-28

Three days of seafood and live music on the waterfront. Don't miss this year's event which will be expanded and offer even more seafood than last year!

FREE admission to the event areas and concerts all weekend.

November 20th -  Antiques Extravaganza

Three times a year, (November, January, February) there is the Antiques and Collector's Extravaganza at Renninger's in Mount Dora, FL. The show runs Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Nearly 800 vendors from all over the country come in to set up and sell out in the show field, in the antique center, and under the pavilions. The Extravaganza will run rain or shine.

Admission: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 8:00 am - 5 pm

Friday: $10.00, Saturday: $6.00, Sunday: $4.00, Three-Day Pass: $15.00 - and Free Parking!

Orange Blossom Cannon Ball Express 

One of Mount Dora’s claims to fame is this vintage train that runs between Mount Dora and Tavares. The train was used in many a Western movie, and depending on when you book, you may experience a Western reenactment on the 45 minute train ride!

Best of all is taking the Cannon Ball Express during the Christmas season, though. Read on for more on that!

Christmas in Mount Dora

Spectacular street decorations and carolers delight as you stroll through the streets of Mount Dora during the holiday season. You can find out about all the Christmas activities here.

All through December, the Christmas Cannonball runs from Mount Dora to Tavares and back. The train is decked out for the holiday, Santa boards the train at the North Pole to visit with kids of all ages and present each child with a gift. Add Santa's elves and you have a special evening filled with fun and inspiration. This trip is great family entertainment!

So put Mount Dora on your to-see list! You will not regret it. 

 

Creative Florida Living 

Janet Sells 

Underrated and Unknown Attractions in Central Florida II

If you live in Central Florida, you know that there is always something fun to do. And if you are visiting, you are probably here to experience some of those fun things. Most notably are, of course, the Disney Parks near Orlando, that draw millions of visitors every year. But those parks are pretty pricey, especially if you are going with your family. 

However, not to fear! Here are some great attractions and activities that are not expensive and some are even free! Moreover, they are not as well known, so you may not encounter hordes of people when you go. 

Mount Dora Museum of Speed

Mount Dora Museum of Speed is small but mighty. It is packed with some of the rarest auto history you’ll find anywhere in Florida. The museum includes an odd collection of cars, clothing, neon signs, signed guitars and a lot more.

The museum is privately owned and operated, so it is good to call ahead and make sure they are actually open. Some of the cars on display are for sale, so if you’re in the market, you might find your classic car gem here!

This quirky showcase is ranked in the top 3 of things to do in Mount Dora on Tripadvisor, and it is a fun activity to integrate in your Mount Dora visit (where you should go anyway, because Mount Dora is awesome!). 

The museum is open Monday – Friday from 10AM-5PM. Admission is $15. The guided tour costs $20 and requires a minimum of 20 people. No people under 14 are allowed in the museum. Call 352-385-0049 to see if they’ll be open when you want to go!

M&M’s World

Yes, you read it – M&M’s WORLD! 

It’s at the Florida Mall in Orlando. 

You can meet life-size M&M characters! In person!  The M&M World is a fun shop to explore with some interactive exhibits but the M&M guys are what make this retail experience a must see if you’re at the mall.

There is a lot of stuff to see and buy – and of course there are M&M’s. Not much else to say here… M&M’s… mmmm! 

There are a lot more Central Florida attractions we will explore. Whether you live here year round, are visiting, or are thinking about relocating, Florida is THE entertainment state!  

 Creative Florida Living

 Janet Sells